DUI Defense Lawyer in Torrance, California
Let Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, fight for your rights and freedoms. For over 30 years, he has defended clients throughout Los Angeles County. His deep understanding of California DUI law and experience negotiating settlements and trying cases in court is unparalleled. He handles cases involving first-time and repeated DUI offenses, boating under the influence (BUI), and underage DUI. A DUI charge can put your life on hold. Do not go another day without the representation you deserve and need. To consult with a veteran Torrance DUI defense lawyer, schedule a free case review with Attorney Shook today. He offers affordable services and can arrange payment plans.
Call (310) 361-2977 or contact our office online.
What Is DUI in California?
In short, California law prohibits people from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The state defines being “under the influence” as either:
- Having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Or showing signs of impairment because of drugs or alcohol.
Additionally, the law considers individuals driving with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) under the influence if they have a BAC of 0.04% or higher.
People who are drunk or under the influence of drugs can sit in vehicles. However, if there is evidence of intent to drive, they could be arrested for DUI. Examples of this evidence include a key in the ignition or a car parked on a roadside.
California DUI Penalties
Below we have detailed the penalties for first-time and repeated DUI offenses:
- A first DUI conviction can result in a sentence that includes up to six months in jail, fines of $1,000, nine months of DUI school, driver’s license restrictions/suspensions, and ignition interlock device (IID) use for six months.
- A second DUI conviction can result in a sentence that includes up to one year in jail, $1,000 in fines, 30 months of DUI school, driver’s license restrictions/suspensions, and IID use for a year.
- A third DUI conviction can result in a sentence that includes up to a year in jail, $1,000 in fines, 30 months of DUI school, license suspension, and IID use for two years.
- A felony DUI conviction (typically a fourth DUI) can result in a sentence that includes up to three years in prison, fines of $1,000, 30 months of DUI school, and a five-year driver’s license suspension.
Aggravating Factors for DUI Sentencing in California
When courts determine that an aggravating factor was part of a DUI offense, they can impose greater penalties.
Some aggravating factors include:
- The presence of an open container of alcohol.
- A BAC reading higher than .15%.
- The DUI resulting in an accident.
- The driver being under the legal drinking age (21).
Judges may deliver harsher sentences for aggravating factors, regardless of whether the DUI is a person’s first or repeated offense.
Does Your DUI Case Need a Lawyer?
While it is possible to go it alone in DUI cases, hiring a lawyer is a wise decision. DUI laws are complicated, and the impacts of a conviction can be severe. An attorney offering counsel and guidance throughout the criminal process can be invaluable. Plus, a Los Angeles County DUI lawyer like Michael D. Shook understands how prosecutors approach these cases. With this knowledge, he can anticipate the prosecution’s arguments and skillfully develop a strategy that aims to reduce charges or have them dropped.
To find out what Attorney Shook can offer you, connect online or call (310) 361-2977.